MAIREHAU, MAIREIRE

Phebalium nudum

An aromatic shrub or small tree, graceful in its growth, with a smooth, brown, slender trunk. The branches, which grow upwards close to the trunk, are covered with slightly crenellated leaves, one to two inches in length.

During spring and summer it is covered with small white, starry flowers, sweetly scented. It is found in the forests from Kaitaia southwards in the North Island, but does not grow naturally in the south.

The Maori people rubbed their bodies with young branches, and wove sachets of the fragrant leaves. Titoki oil was scented with the leaves and flowers, which were bruised first. In a chemical analysis of the leaves they were found to contain the essential oil of citronella, phenol and camphene (Radcliffe 8: Short).

This tree makes a delightful garden shelter, as it can be planted closely, is not too tall, is evergreen, and the fragrance of the leaves and flowers add to its charm.